Connective Tissue Structure

Structure of Connective Tissue (C.T)

• Consists of three main components: cells, matrix, and fibers
• Types of C.T: soft, rubber, solid, and fluid

Connective Tissue Proper (C.T Proper)

• Includes cartilage, bone, and blood
• Cartilage: has a matrix of C.T proper
• Matrix of C.T proper: amorphous ground substance, transparent and gel-like material

Pericytes

• Found around blood vessels
• Can differentiate into fibroblasts and smooth muscles during wound healing
• Functions: surround blood vessels, can differentiate into other cells

Endothelial Cells

• Found in: lining all blood vessels and the endocardium of the heart
• Characteristics: thin, flat cells with flat nuclei
• Functions:
  • Divide to produce new endothelial cells to repair injured blood vessels
  • Produce anti-thrombotic factors, which prevent platelet aggregation

Fibroblasts

• Origin: pericytes
• Found in: most common type, found nearly in all types of C.T
• Staining: silver stain, appears brown to black
• Functions:
  • Form the stroma of organs, e.g. bone marrow and glands, e.g. liver

This quiz covers the structure of connective tissue, including cells, matrix, and fibers. It also explores the different types of connective tissue, such as cartilage, bone, and blood.